Gabuza Last Man Standing in MTN 8 Success

Gabuza Last Man Standing in MTN 8 Success! Supersport United striker, Thamsanqa Gabuza vindicated himself by capping off a fine MTN8 tournament as the last man standing.

It was a double swoop for the former Orlando Pirates man as he won the top-goalscorer and man-of-the-match awards after the final whistle. Ironically, Gabuza successes were achieved at the home of his former team, the spiritual home of South African football, Orlando Stadium in Soweto.

Gabuza has in recent years been the subject of ridicule, contempt and scorn from the Ghost who affectionately are Orlando Pirates fans but his recent achievements are indeed a slap in the face to his tormentors.

Gabuza has formed a deadly strike partnership with Bradley Grobler and between them they netted 5 times to carry Supersport United over the line to their second MTN8 cup success in a record breaking three consecutive finals.

Sadly, Gabuza played in the final despite the death of his son last week Monday.  Gabuza kept news of his son’s death from his teammates in an effort not to destabilise the team ahead of the important match against Highlands Park.

Coach Kaitano Tembo had no option but to dedicate cup success to the former Orlando Pirates man for his courage and commitment.

“This is what happened, he didn’t want to upset the camp because we were facing a very crucial game. For me, i see someone who’s really committed, someone who a lot of players can learn form” said Tembo.

 Gabuza and Grobler both pocketed R25 000 each in the final for man of the match and final goal scorer awards respectively.

This is after flagship tournament sponsors MTN as part of their 25th anniversary celebrations in South Africa upped the monetary stakes for both awards from the usual R8 000 in anticipation of a thrilling final. 

Gabuza the man seemingly born anew and rejuvenated under Tembo had the last laugh as well after scooping the last man standing award awarded to the top goal scorer of the tournament with three goals.

This is in stark contrast to his torturous and tormented period previously in Soweto where he suffered disdain, impatience, scant disregard and misunderstanding from the Ghost.  

By Gerald Dandah